Cultural Variations Between Japanese Americans and Japanese in Japan

Over the years, I have encountered numerous Japanese Americans during my visits to Tokyo. These individuals, such as my friends who were born and raised in New York, possess an almost entirely American cultural identity, both in terms of attitude and outlook. Despite being descendants of immigrants who left Japan generations ago, their cultural roots have become deeply entwined with American values and customs. For the most part, they either speak little or no Japanese, or only a basic level. This article explores the distinct cultural differences between Japanese Americans and their counterparts in Japan, especially in historical and social contexts.

Distinct Cultural Identity

One of the most striking contrasts is the cultural identity displayed by Japanese Americans compared to the traditional Japanese from Japan. In my experience, many Japanese Americans have been shaped by American culture from a young age. For instance, a young woman I remember from my first Japanese class over 30 years ago, whose mother was Japanese, had grown up in California. She was eager to learn Japanese to help her communicate with her mother, who spoke only broken English. Yet, even she seemed utterly American in her demeanor, confident, outgoing, and gregarious – traits commonly associated with many Americans.

World War II and Cultural Loyalty

During World War II, Japanese Americans demonstrated their unwavering loyalty to the United States and its allies. They stood firmly against the war crimes committed by Japan, contrary to the views of some Japanese nationals who deny such war crimes. This historic moment serves as a stark example of the cultural and ideological differences that have persisted over the years.

Cultural Disparities and Integration

While some Japanese Americans consider themselves culturally Japanese, their genetic ties to Japan do not necessarily align with their cultural upbringing. As a third-generation Sansei (third-generation Japanese American) who doesn't speak the language fluently, I often find myself feeling more culturally Japanese than many Japanese Americans. This is unsurprising given the long-lasting impact of cultural assimilation in the United States.

When Japanese Americans decide to immigrate to Japan, they frequently face challenges in fitting into Japanese society. The expectations of behavior, language proficiency, and cultural norms can make it difficult for them to succeed. Even if I, as a foreigner, make a social mistake, I would likely be forgiven. But the same cannot be said for someone who looks Japanese but doesn't fully embody Japanese cultural expectations. These individuals often struggle to blend in, highlighting the deep cultural divide between Japanese Americans and traditional Japanese.

Conclusion

In essence, Japanese Americans are culturally Amricans who may possess Japanese ancestry. Their lives are profoundly influenced by American values and customs, making them distinct from their Japanese counterparts in terms of culture, language, and social behavior. The differences in their cultural identities reflect the complex interplay of history, immigration, and the assimilation process. Understanding these nuances is crucial for appreciating the unique cultural landscape of both Japanese Americans and traditional Japanese people.